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The Tomten Jacket

Had it not been a sample for my friend’s shop I would never have truly appreciated the great knit Goddess that Elizabeth Zimmermann is. I mean I did a bit with the Norwegian Mittens but now I’m a true loyal devotee. What a cool freakin’ pattern! I mean it was all knit stitches which at first I thought would make me be bored to tears BUT NO! I was enthralled up to the last bit of I-cord. Oh sure, The beautiful colorway of Manos 113 also helps. I knew from the cast on that a gold border would just pull it together and boy, it really did! However it was so easy to change your mind to a pink or a blue border because the colors in that yarn just allow so much creativity.

Of course knitting this jacket in a little over 7 days would not have entirely been possible without me being off from work. (although we all know what happened when HP came out – a girl’s gotta read too you know!) I also decided against making the hood because I just loved the the look of the ‘popped collar’ – it’s the Jcrew prepster in me.

The applied I-cord was a first time for me. I couldn’t quite picture the concept at first but once I got it going there was no turning back. I’m surprised I haven’t i-corded the couch cushions yet!

I must thank my model for being too cute for words while enjoying her lollipop. She is my friend Patricia’s niece and just such a good sport for wearing the coat in 90 degree weather – even though we did put her in front of the air conditioner. ETA: Her sister also got in to it by sporting the jacket

Also a huge thanks to J a r e d for posting his gorgeous adult version which sparked the inspiration.This humble knitter truly wonders where she would be without the knit blogs… they have proven time again to be such a source of energy, inspiration and support! Thank you a million times over.

I’ll be vacationing in LBI next week and therefore won’t have much connection to the internet! See you all in about a week 🙂

M

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21 thoughts on “The Tomten Jacket”

The popped collar was the way to go, it give it such a fresh touch. I agree that knitting blogs do provide so much inspiration and many useful ideas! Sometimes I forget that that is the reason I read them.

Wow- I love the way this turned out- it looks amazing (and it’s not just ’cause your models are adorable)! Good to know that the garter didn’t bore you- that’s what I would be afraid of. Anyway, congrats! And, happy belated b-day to your mom! 🙂

What a beautiful knit coat. I’m putting this on my “must-make-right-away list” after seeing yours. I have a brand-new niece and some beautiful peachy wool that’ll look great on her. Thanks for sharing 🙂

Rockin’! Between Cobblestone and Biscuit’s Denim Blanket, I don’t know when I’m gonna do this, but it’s going to be SOOOON. Use of lolly as bribe is noted- I do that all the time these days. I have a big ole stash of Dum-Dums in my diaper bag.

The I cord contrast really sets off the Manos, good choice. Did you use an EZ original pattern or did you find an updated one somewhere? I think the EZ books make entertaining and educational bathroom reading, but they kill me when it comes to following the pattern.

Hi there! I love your tomten! I’m knitting one right now and I’m hoping you can help me. The pattern says to work a short RIDGE. Does that mean that two rows need to be short rows, or does it mean a short row and then a regular row? If you could advise, I would really appreciate it! Thanks.
– Heather in Washington